USDA changes rules on annatto

Colourings company DDW has reported that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has made…

Colourings company DDW has reported that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has made changes to its National Organic Program (NOP). Revisions include removal of the allowance for non-organic annatto extract colour from the National List.

This, according to DDW, means that annatto extract will be off the list of ‘organic compliant’ colourings in November 2013 with an additional twelve months to comply.

DDW said that authorities have determined that certified organic annatto is commercially available in sufficient quantities, noting that all organic food products using annatto extract for colour must use a certified organic version by November 3, 2014.

Using its natural colouring manufacturing site in Wisconsin, DDW launched the first certified organic annatto product to the North American market in 2009. DDW has added to the organic colouring portfolio in recent years.

Annatto is a carotenoid colour source that provides a yellow to orange in natural cheese, ice cream, snacks, cereals and baked goods. Oil soluble annatto can apply in process cheese, spreads, salad dressing, snacks, frosting and confectionery coating.